Dr. Jane Goodall, a renowned British primatologist, anthropologist, and conservationist, was known for her deep and personal faith in God, which she viewed as something very tangible. Sadly, she passed away on October 1st, and her memorial service took place at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
Goodall dedicated herself to improving the planet in ways she never initially anticipated. She spent around 300 days each year traveling, working directly with global leaders, and promoting the Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977. This organization, along with over 20 other like-minded groups, takes a comprehensive approach to conservation. Her Roots & Shoots program empowers young people to work on projects that benefit animal, human, and environmental welfare across more than 70 countries.
Reflecting on our conversation from March, I realized that Dr. Goodall imparted many lessons about faith. This interview was one of twelve I conducted for my upcoming book, “Witness to Faith: Conversations about Faith and Meaning.”
Regardless of one’s beliefs, there’s valuable insight to gain from Dr. Goodall—whom I affectionately called “Dr. Jane”—especially concerning faith and what it signifies in life’s final moments.
She was raised in the Anglican tradition but had an inclusive view of spirituality. Even though she practiced Christianity, she respected those who followed different paths. As she noted, “If I had been born in Egypt, I would have become a Muslim.” Throughout her life, she described God as being as real to her as the breeze on a warm day.
During her childhood, Dr. Goodall regularly attended church. She would collect her favorite Bible verses on slips of paper and keep them in what she called her “Bible Box,” using them for encouragement each day. One of her cherished verses emphasized perseverance: “No one who once puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of heaven.”
Her faith journey began with a powerful experience, which she described as a “mystical ecstasy” while listening to Bach in Notre Dame Cathedral. This moment, she explained, solidified her belief in a profound spiritual force she referred to as God.
Dr. Goodall spoke of feeling a call to action—what she interpreted as the voice of God guiding her. At the end of our conversation, she shared, “At this point in my life, I have such strong faith in the One in whom we live and move and sustain our being.” Her steadfast faith helped her navigate an incredibly hectic schedule.
Much of her work focused on advocating for sustainable energy sources, responsible resource management, and the humane treatment of animals. She often explained that simply arguing didn’t yield successful communication. Instead, she emphasized listening to others’ hearts, suggesting that true potential is reached only when intellect and emotion align.
Throughout our talks, Dr. Jane imparted numerous lessons, yet the conversation about death struck me as particularly enlightening. “I’ve never been afraid of death,” she shared. “I don’t think it’s an end; rather, it could be a beginning. For me, the next great adventure is to die, and I think discovering what awaits is the most thrilling journey of all!”
While some might view Dr. Jane Goodall’s life as a chapter in history, she firmly believed in her lasting impact. A few weeks before her passing, she wrote to me and my wife, concluding with a hopeful reminder: “Pray to the great spiritual power of the universe, which we know to be God.” In challenging times, her faith serves as a profound inspiration, encouraging us all to live fully and face the unknown with anticipation rather than fear—the ultimate adventure awaits.
